How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate dust, mildew, mold growth, and other particles. The contaminants are then distributed throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or if you smell an unpleasant odor, it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are rustproof and durable, promoting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts can be used in tight spaces and are cheap. However they are susceptible to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in the ducts allow air conditioning to escape from the system. They can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks typically occur where duct segments meet, especially at joints. These sections may split and become loose over time because of gravity, age and other factors. Sealing these connections can stop air leakage. However, it is best to hire a professional HVAC technician to do extensive repairs and seal your ducts.

Check for indications of leaks in the ducts in your attic or crawlspace where the ductwork is exposed. Check for areas of ducts that appear bent, crushed or kinked. This could indicate an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Check the joints and seams to see if they’re warm. Also pay attention to any whistling sounds when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, there are probably leaks in the ducts.

Unidentified cold and hot spots could be a sign of a leaking pipe. Since air leaks rob the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this may be the reason for these spaces to be difficult to maintain a consistent temperature.

The ductwork’s gaps can allow dust to circulate throughout the house even when the household activities aren’t changing. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens can cause asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts could also spread toxic fumes into the living area. If you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for instance, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to fumes. This risk is particularly threatening if you have elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect the presence of these gases and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates like Florida, air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a problem since the sweaty ducts are allowing excessive moisture into homes, which could cause a variety of issues, such as mold growth and poor indoor air quality. There are several things that homeowners can do to lower humidity and keep ductwork dry.

The first step is to reduce the amount of water used in your home as much as you can. This includes reducing the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and even decorations such as aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners should also utilize a dehumidifier in order to make their home drier.

It is also crucial to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold or other problems. If there’s a problem the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by an expert.

Leakage is a common issue in ductwork. This is usually caused by joint seals that are not properly installed which can cause gaps and cracks. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that all joints and connections are properly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts are made of different materials. Each type has its own characteristics that can influence the way they perform. The least expensive air ducts, made of polyester, have the least lifespan and are more vulnerable to damage by pests and other elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and are more resistant to insects.

Airflow can be restricted by objects like furniture, toys, and other objects. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow and efficiency of your system’s energy consumption.

Blocked ducts can also cause uneven cooling and heating and cooling, which is a significant issue in older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.

If a homeowner believes they are suffering from a leakage or humidity issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The professional will assess the ductwork and suggest any necessary repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is easily accessible, since it will impact the speed and at what cost the professional can finish the task.

Mold

Moisture and warm temperatures can combine to cause mold in air conditioning ducts. The moisture is brought on by condensation within the air ducts. This creates an environment that is moist and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores are then distributed throughout the house through your HVAC system, and trigger allergy symptoms in household members.

Signs of mold on the surface around the air vents are an indicator that you must engage an HVAC professional for AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often a sign of mold growth. If the area appears damp or slimy, there is clearly an issue. If there is a musty smell that is an indication of a mold problem.

It is also possible to detect mold by ripped or torn air duct insulation, rips on vent covers rodent droppings, and cockroach shells. If the mold issue is severe, you may notice decaying wood and falling metal.

Stachybotrys is the most frequent mold that is found in air ducts. This mold can produce toxic mold. It is usually found on drywall and wood surfaces, but can also develop in the spaces between rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation of the eyes, allergies nose and throat, and respiratory issues.

Mold in the air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. The symptoms can be more severe in children and elderly. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can also trigger nausea headaches, fatigue and fatigue.

It is suggested that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. The safety concerns involved are the reason. Mold spores spread quickly through the air and are very difficult to eradicate once they begin growing. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and keep it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and ensure that it does not return.

To prevent the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts every few years. By following these steps, you can prevent condensation and humidity, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can ruin your summer activities and leave you with itchy, swollen eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is an essential part of fighting allergies. Moreover, your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding place for the things that cause your symptoms.

Pollen, dust mites mold spores and pet dander are all common allergens that trigger allergies. These particles can be tracked in the Fridley home on footwear or clothing and then dispersed throughout the house by your HVAC system. These particles can be dispersed throughout the house due to ductwork leaks.

The best method to fight these allergens is to do an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will eliminate these particles and help you breathe more easily.

A clogged air duct may also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen your allergies. These bacteria are transmitted when air passes through your ducts and the vents inside your home.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up inside and spread throughout your home when you turn on your air cooling. This can lead to respiratory issues and even result in more serious illness in certain cases.

Many people, especially during the spring and the early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes, on their clothing and shoes. These allergens are more likely to settle in places that won’t be disturbed again until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are among these areas, and if they’re not cleaned regularly the allergens will remain in the air vents until you turn on your heating or cooling system.

Clean air ducts can cause numerous problems for homeowners, including increased energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these issues by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians employ a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through ductwork that has been leaking.